Saudade
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The debut album from the the Brazilian classical guitarist Plinio Fernandes, the 18 tracks here offer a love letter to his native country, and include popular songs of Brazil and the classical tradition of Villa-Lobos.
“Assanhado” starts the listen off with rhythmic and highly detailed guitar playing that hardly seems like it’s emanating from just one guitar, and “The Girl From Ipanema” follows with an agile melody that emits much beauty and grace.
Further into the listen, “Ponta De Areia” flows with a very sublime, intimate spirit, where a reflective nature unfolds with fascinating progressions, while “O Mundo É Um Moinho” brings gorgeous singing into the heartfelt album highlight.
Deeper yet, “Gracias A La Vida” offers a rich and uplifting display of meticulous finger acrobatics, and “Menino” finishes the listen with stirring strings to complement the proficient guitar playing.
Fernandes takes help from Maria Rita, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, and Braimah Kanneh-Mason, and it makes for an absorbing, cultured and mesmerizing first effort from an unparalleled talent.
Travels well with: Sheku & Isata Kanneh-Mason- Muse; David William Ross- Fading Sounds